Key takeaways
- Confirm current prep rules for each product.
- Use consistent, scannable labels.
- Prepare at the source if you can control quality.
- Keep a prep table for every product.
Why prep and labeling matter
Fulfillment centers process very large volumes. Items that are poorly packed risk damage, and items that cannot be scanned cannot be received and stored. Requirements exist to keep inventory identifiable and safe. Requirements change, so confirm current rules in Seller Central.
Product identification
Products generally need a scannable identifier that matches your listing. Depending on the situation, this might be a manufacturer barcode or an Amazon barcode applied by you or by Amazon. Understand which method your inventory uses, because mixing methods can cause commingling and attribution problems.
Categories that often need prep
Items such as products sold as sets, fragile goods, liquids, small items, textiles or loose items may need specific preparation, for example bagging, bubble wrap, sealing or a set label. Check the prep requirements shown for each product in your inventory tools and follow them precisely.
- Sets sold together that must stay together
- Fragile or breakable items
- Liquids and items that can leak
- Small or loose items needing bagging
- Sharp items needing protection
Labeling quality
Labels must be legible, flat and placed where they can be scanned. Cover or remove old barcodes that could cause confusion. Use the recommended label sizes and print quality.
Prep services and who does it
Prep can be done by you, your supplier, a prep provider or, in some cases, by Amazon for a fee. Compare the costs and reliability of each. Doing prep at the factory can be efficient if it is controlled well.
Quality control before shipping
Create a checklist and spot-check cartons before dispatch. Check labels, prep and quantities against the shipment plan. Photograph a sample as evidence if disputes arise later.
Keep a record of requirements
Maintain a table of prep requirements for each product so everyone follows the same instructions. Update it when Amazon updates a requirement or when you change packaging.
A worked example
A seller of small items finds that some shipments arrive with products loose in cartons. They introduce clear polybags with warning labels and a packing guide with photos. Receiving problems and damage claims fall noticeably.
Common mistakes
Typical issues are wrong barcodes, forgetting to cover old labels, packing sets incorrectly and not checking updated prep guidance. A short supplier brief with examples helps avoid them.
Your next three steps
Standardize prep across your catalog.
- Create a table of prep and labeling needs for every product.
- Share it with suppliers and the packing team.
- Spot-check one carton from every shipment before dispatch.
Key terms
A few terms used above, in plain language.
- Prep: preparing a product so it can be stored and shipped safely.
- Barcode: a scannable code identifying a unit.
- Commingling: storing identical units from different sellers together.
Worth remembering
Prep problems are easier to prevent at the factory than to fix at the fulfillment center. Share requirements with suppliers before production begins.
Frequently asked questions
Can Amazon prep my items for me?
In some situations, for a fee. Check current availability and costs in Seller Central.
What happens if I do not prep correctly?
Items can be delayed, refused or charged for corrective prep.
This guide is general information. Amazon's fees, policies and program rules change and vary by marketplace, so confirm current details in Seller Central and, for tax or legal questions, with a qualified adviser.